The JOURNEY is cruel
In 2010, Australia exported around 3,000,000 sheep
predominantly to the Middle East, and around 700,000 cattle
predominantly to Indonesia. The trip to the Middle East can take up
to 35 days, with three sheep confined to one square metre
throughout the entire journey.
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DEATHS
ON BOARD
In 2010, around 27,000 sheep died on board, nearly half
from starvation. The rest due to physical trauma, and diseases like
Salmonellosis, exacerbated by stress and overcrowding. Cattle
deaths increased by twenty percent in 2010.
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INHUMANE
SLAUGHTER
Upon arrival overseas, Australian animals are no longer under
our protection. Many animals will still be slaughtered whilst fully
conscious.
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JOBS
LOST
Over 1,000 meat workers lost their jobs in 2010. The Meat
Workers Union claims this was mainly due to livestock shortages,
which were exacerbated by the live export trade and is calling for
a phase out of the trade by 2016.
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ECONOMIC
IMPACT
An economic analysis commissioned in 2009 revealed that a sheep
processed in Australia is worth 20% more to our economy than one
processed overseas. In addition, research shows live export could
be costing Australia around $1.5 billion in lost GDP and around
$270 million in household income.
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PUBLIC
SUPPORT
A national opinion poll showed that four in five Australians
believe that the Labor Party should support a phase out of live
export in favour of a local chilled meat export industry. 113,000
people have now joined the Humane Chain, and a number of
representatives from across the political spectrum are against the
trade.
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